Otters

Otters are known for their cute looks and the way that they bob up and down in the water. They are very easy to identify. They have brown coloured thick fur and webbed feet. Their body is streamlined with short legs and a tail that tapers. While underwater their nostrils can close to keep out fluid.

In terms of biology these creatures are related to badgers, stoats, minks, weasels and even wolverines. These semi-aquatic mammals can be found mostly in freshwater areas. People should bear this mind when looking for them in nature reserves.

Males are referred to as dogs, while the females are called bitches. When otters are together they can be heard to emit a high pitched noise. This is a form of communication among the species. When they feel that they are under threat they can make a loud chattering noise designed to drive away predators.

For a long time otters were thought to have vanished from England. This was likely due to the destruction of their habitat and water pollution. However, in 2011 a report found that otters have once again returned to every county.